Help us transform the Lighthouse into a visitor and research center with educational and recreational opportunities that celebrate local history and advance nature conservation.
In August 2021, our Ecodetour coordinator visited Culebrita Island, here is a virtual tour of the project.
ABOUT
THE LIGHTHOUSE
The Lighthouse and its history
Saving a place is not only about a meaningful building facing the test of time. It’s also about the people who have related to it throughout their lives and the shared memories that make up their cultural legacy.
In this section you’ll find videos, photos and other documents that tell the story of this remarkable lighthouse and its incredible location in Isla Culebrita, the island that greets the sun.
ABOUT
THE LIGHTHOUSE
The Lighthouse and its history
Saving a place is not only about a meaningful building facing the test of time. It’s also about the people who have related to it throughout their lives and the shared memories that make up their cultural legacy.
In this section you’ll find videos, photos and other documents that tell the story of this remarkable lighthouse and its incredible location in Isla Culebrita, the island that greets the sun.
ABOUT
THE LIGHTHOUSE
Memories of the Culebrita Lighthouse: A Cultural Legacy to be Rescued (2014)
This is a short documentary (18 min.) produced by Fundación de Culebra which shows the history of this unique place in the world and of the people that lived there. Through personal accounts, residents share their memories along with experts that describe the architectural and historic virtues of the lighthouse.
ABOUT
THE LIGHTHOUSE
Memorias de Culebra (2012)
This is a 42 minute documentary that puts together testimonials and stories of the people of Culebra and their decades-long struggle to give peace back to their island during the years of occupation by the US Navy. Through interviews with residents and historic footage we are able to understand the experiences and memories of the people who helped forge the unique character of Culebra.
Download information about the Culebrita Lighthouse and initial aspects of its restoration.
Architectural visualization of the rehabilitated facades
The structure will be turned into a new place for the people of Culebra, a world-class destination for its guests.
TRANSFORMING A
HISTORIC GEM
Proposed lighthouse floor plan
Besides bedrooms for researchers and personnel, a small kitchen, storage areas, equipment and medical rooms and laboratory, we’ll have all the necessary infrastructure to bring back life to this place, including water harvesting.
TRANSFORMING A
HISTORIC GEM
Minimal interventions
In the areas already impacted around the lighthouse, we’ll be creating zero trace camping platforms, meeting spaces and basic services like compostable toilets and a water harvesting systems.
TRANSFORMING A
HISTORIC GEM
Passive recreation
Shaded resting areas and meeting spaces will also be provided for the enjoyment of the community.
TRANSFORMING A
HISTORIC GEM
Zero trace camping platforms
These will provide public spaces to contemplate our landscape in a sustainable way and to educate future generations about the natural treasure that is Culebrita.
TRANSFORMING A
HISTORIC GEM
Access for all
Cleaning of the site will be followed by permanent improvements to the access dock, thus ensuring that Culebrita is at everyone’s reach.
A PLACE TO
CELEBRATE HISTORY
AND NATURE
Citizen Science
A research center focusing on marine and coastal ecosystems, where Culebra residents and volunteer visitors will work hand in hand with scientists.
Nature and historic interpretation
Guided tour programming complemented with self-guided interpretative signage and exhibitions.
Hiking and landscape appreciation
Clearly marked hiking trails around the lighthouse will allow for the appreciation of the impressive views and unique nature of Culebrita.
Recreational opportunities
Facilities for eco-camping and other nature immersion activities that will support the cultural, tourist and economic development in Culebra.
Community engagement
The community will be at the core of all activities and programming, with facilities that will include reception spaces, exhibition areas and a multiuse hall for community use.
Learning opportunities for all
Our years of experience designing programming that incorporates our communities and their visitors will guide our activities at Culebrita, including educational offerings such as summer camps and volunteer events.
IT'S TIME TO
MAKE IT SHINE!
Because this is a world-class, multimillion-dollar project spanning several years, every donation is very important to us.
You can contribute with in-kind gifts such as construction materials, personnel or pro bono services. There are many ways to support our work!